What is the primary cause of acne?

• A. Excessive sweating
• B. Bacterial infection
• C. Blocked hair follicles
• D. Poor diet

Answer: (C)

The primary cause of acne is blocked hair follicles. Acne forms when hair follicles become clogged with excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells. This clogging creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to inflammation and the development of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. The excess sebum is produced by sebaceous glands, which are influenced by hormonal changes, particularly during adolescence.

While bacterial infections can contribute to the severity of acne, they are not the initial cause. Additionally, excessive sweating does not directly cause acne, nor does poor diet—though these factors can potentially influence the skin's overall health, they are not primary drivers of acne. Understanding that the root problem lies in the blockage of hair follicles provides insight into both the pathology of acne and potential treatment approaches, which often focus on preventing this clogging.